One of my most favorite scenes in the Bible, and I have a lot of favorites, is the scene after the crucifixion, where Mary is alone at Jesus’ empty tomb. It brings tears to my eyes every time I read it.

Mary is looking for Jesus. But he’s not in the tomb. In her distress, she is crying, and doesn’t recognize the man behind her. Until…he speaks her name. Oh. My. Goodness.

He calls her by name.

Mary and Jesus have a real relationship. They are familiar with each other, and know each others’ voice, just as a mother can distinguish her child’s cry from a dozen other squalling infants.

Theirs is an intimate relationship. One of caring. One of love. One of belonging.

Jesus knows my name. He knows your name. He went to the cross of Calvary to secure a relationship with us. His outstretched hands call to us. All we have to do is grab hold, and accept his gift of forgiveness, and claim him as LORD.

Grace.

Where have we put him? What have we done with Jesus?

Does Jesus reside in our heart? Is he our constant companion? Someone we trust, and worship? Do we worship him with abandon, and not worry about who knows it? Do we speak of our love for him to those around us?

Or do we only think of Jesus when we’re in trouble, or want something?  Or is our knowledge of Christ something we hide, because we’re afraid of what others might think?

Where have we put him? Is he King on the throne of our hearts?

What are your thoughts on the subject?

“Why are you crying?” the angels asked her.

 

“Because they have taken away my Lord,” she replied, “and I don’t know where they have put him.”

 

She glanced over her shoulder and saw someone standing behind her. It was Jesus, but she didn’t recognize him!

“Why are you crying?” he asked her. “Whom are you looking for?”

 

She thought he was the gardener. “Sir,” she said, “if you have taken him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will go and get him.”

 

 “Mary!” Jesus said. She turned toward him.

 

“Master!” she exclaimed. John 20:13-16 (TLB)

I wish you well.

Sandy

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